It’s not an easy task to shake the monkey off ones back. Your powerful poem doesn’t condemn the addict but rather, sheds light on her struggles and in her humanity. Heartbreaking and potent poem, Alan darkling. 🌹💋💘

Alan, that second verse in particular is wrenching. Everywhere we read of the advancing Opioid Crisis. Drugs are destroying lives and families. Their power is truly demonic. Yet your compassion for victims is evident in everything you write.

Laura has been completely clean for thirteen months. she has a new life and I’ve never seen her so happy.

Paul is in what he calls recovery. His idea of recover differs from mine. Right now he’s drunk. He got into a fight, then assaulted a police officer who’s brought him back to me because he doesn’t want the hassle.